As electricians, it’s common to be asked “Can’t I do that myself?” when quoting for a job. The simple answer is: When it comes to electrical work, – i.e. anything more than changing a lightbulb or blown fuse – it’s not just unsafe, it’s illegal in Australia, and could land you a hefty fine of up to $40,000 if you get caught, and up to $600,000 if anyone gets injured due to your DIY work. On top of that it also voids your property insurance. We understand that the lines are a little blurred when it comes to what is considered “electrical work”, so let’s clear that up!
What exactly is “electrical work”?
Electrical work refers to work done on:
- Electrical machines or instruments (e.g., switchboards)
- Appliances (e.g., a washing machine) that use more than 50 volts of alternating current (AC) or 120 volts of direct current (DC) or that can be powered through a plug socket (e.g., a toaster), regardless of whether they are currently receiving electricity.
- Anything part of or connected to electrical distribution systems (e.g., power lines & power poles) or private generators (e.g., a backup generator for a home).
- Installations and wiring (e.g., electrical wiring in a building)
If you still can’t work out whether you can carry out the DIY task you had in mind, ask yourself the following questions – If the answer is yes to any of them, it is time to call an electrician.
- Does the task involve installing, repairing, altering, or removing electrical wiring?
- Is the task related to wiring any part of a building or installing electrical equipment?
- Does the task involve working with electricity that could pose a risk of death or serious injury?
Common tasks that require an electrician
Still not sure if you need an electrician? Here are some tasks you might have considered safe, but in reality are quite complex and could lead to serious injury to you, your family and anyone that visits your home.
- Installing or moving a power point
- Replacing a light switch
- Repairing an electrical appliance like a heater or toaster
- Constructing an extension lead
- Installing an air conditioning system
- Installing a ceiling fan
- Wiring up a shed
What electrical work can you do on your own?
If you got this far, you’re probably thinking an electrician is required for just about everything related to electricity, and you would be correct. Thankfully, there are still a few DIY tasks that you can do on your own if you enjoy getting your hands dirty.
Installing Low-Voltage Garden Lighting
These systems use a significantly reduced voltage, making them a much safer DIY project.
Replacing a Washing Machine Drive Belt
This task is primarily mechanical, not electrical. As always, ensure the machine is powered off and unplugged before working on it, but there is no need to call your local electrician.
Changing Blown Lightbulbs
This is a simple fix as long as you turn off the power and choose the correct replacement bulb.
Replacing LED Downlights
If your fittings are compatible, many LED downlights are designed for easy replacement and just unplug from a socket in the roof. Remember to switch off the circuit breaker for safety.
Installing Battery-Operated Smoke Alarms
Unlike wired smoke alarms, battery operated alarms don’t connect to your home’s electrical system, so there’s minimal electrical risk involved. Speaking of – when was the last time you replaced your battery? If you don’t remember, now is as good a time as any. And while you are at it, set a reminder for every April fools day to replace your battery, you should be doing it at least once a year. And remember, wired smoke alarms still need required by law even if you do have battery powered alarms.
Baby proofing your homes electrical system.
If you have kids, or have one on the way, ensuring your homes electrical system is safe should be your top priority – take a look at our little guide on baby proofing your home. Even if you don’t have kids, there is no harm in double checking that your home is safe – booking a electrical safety check is super affordable and could save the life of a loved one!
So when do you need to call an electrician?
If you’re not sure if a task is too risky to do on your own, pick up the phone and give us a call now. we will let you know if you can handle it yourself!
